Indolence
Indolence
INDOLENCE.The spirit of Christs religion is inimical to indolence in the sphere of business (Luk 16:11, Mat 24:48; Mat 23:26), but more especially indolent Christianity is salt without savour (Mat 5:13). Not only is a state of salvation hard to maintain (Mat 7:14), but perfection is to be aimed at (Mat 5:48). An enemy sows tares while we sleep (Mat 13:25). The oil in our lamps consumes as we rest (Mat 25:5). Watchfulness is the very opposite of indolence (Mat 26:41). The hid talent will reproach the indolent in the day of reckoning (Mat 25:18). Most deadly is the spiritual indolence which is satisfied to have Abraham for father (Luk 3:8, Joh 8:39), or Christ for Saviour, without response to the impulses of the Holy Spirit, the source of life and motion and progress.
A signal judgment may be executed upon the indolent soul, either after a period of further probation (Luk 13:6-9), or suddenly and unexpectedly when that day comes as a snare (Luk 21:34), and the Judge pronounces the sentence (Mar 11:14). The conscience must be kept awake and intelligent (Mat 5:23-24). The beginnings of evil must be checked (v. 18f.). The ears must be open to learn, and the heart ready to believe (Mat 11:15). The rock foundation to build the house upon may need much toil to reach it (Mat 7:24). And continually the servant of Christ must he ready for his Masters coming, with loins girded and lights burning (Luk 12:35).Love is not indolent in seeking the lost sheep (Mat 18:12). Hope is not indolent in running to the sepulchre (Joh 20:4), or hastening to the manger (Luk 2:16). Faith is not indolent in pressing through the crowd to be healed (Mar 5:27). The zeal of thine house shall eat me up (Joh 2:17). See also art. Slothfulness.
W. B. Frankland.